Israeli-Mexican-American cellist Michal Shein is a highly sought-after performer, distinguished educator, and cultural leader dedicated to empowering the next generation of musicians throughout the United States and Latin America.

Michal Shein is the Artistic Director of Cellisimo, a prestigious virtual festival that has transformed the lives and training of more than 90 Latin American cellists representing over 12 countries. The festival has been described as “one of the most important and unique festivals of its kind in Latin America” — Álvaro Bitrán, cellist of the Cuarteto Latinoamericano. Cellisimo offers intensive lessons with Michal Shein and world-class cellists, as well as transformative wellness sessions, culminating in a deeply impactful artistic and educational experience.

As a highly respected and sought-after pedagogue, Michal Shein’s students have been accepted to some of the most prestigious festivals and conservatories in the United States. She regularly gives masterclasses at conservatories and international festivals and frequently serves as a jury member for major competitions, including the National Cello Competition in Monterrey, among others. As a speaker, she has been invited to participate in the Sphinx Conference, El Sistema USA, New World Symphony, and other leading musical institutions and organizations.

In 2023, she was nominated for “Best Teacher of El Sistema USA.” Michal is a faculty member at the New England Conservatory and the Boston String Academy, an award-winning program inspired by Venezuela’s El Sistema.

As a soloist and chamber musician, Michal regularly performs at international festivals and takes part in a wide range of collaborations and projects in Boston. She recently released recordings with acclaimed classical guitarist Adam Levin as part of the Shein Levin Duo. The duo has recorded new arrangements of Schumann’s 5 Folk Pieces, Vivaldi’s sonatas, Manuel de Falla’s 7 Spanish Popular Songs, and other works. In 2027, they will premiere a new work commissioned from acclaimed composer Andrea Casarrubios.

The 2026–2027 season includes collaborations with Vivo Performing Arts in Boston, including projects with the Borromeo Quartet and celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of Casals; premieres at MASS MoCA; the premiere of a new solo cello program; and a highly anticipated tour with the Great Necks Guitar Trio and composer Joe Williams, featuring live performances of the music from Alfred Hitchcock’s film The Lodger, among other projects.